Weather is a major factor every year. From the May 12, 1940, edition of The Baltimore Sun: "Weather man had a tough time making up his mind. Sunshine and gayety until the first race. Everybody talking about first decent Preakness day in three years. ... Sun disappeared, cool wind blew, fancy parasols topping tables on Clubhouse lawn being took off like kites, after second race. ... Sun out again for third race. Dark clouds and dreary outlook as Preakness time came up. It didn't rain."

Later, in 1978, a racing fan told The Sun: "If they call off the Preakness, head for the ark."